One of the world’s hottest peppers, together with alderwood smoke, the pawpaw fruit and a classic cookie from the Netherlands will feature in the top 10 flavour trends for 2013, according to a report published by flavour company Sensient Flavours.

Officials from Guinness World Records officially certified the ghost pepper as the hottest in the world in 2007, measuring it at 1,001,304 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) – or 10,000 times hotter than Tabasco sauce. The record has since been broken by the Trinidad Scorpian ‘Butch T’, which was grown in Australia and measured at 1,463,700 SHU in 2011.

The popularity of alderwood smoke is also set to grow. Alder is commonly used for smoking fish and is said to have a sweet and smoky flavour.

Sweet tropical flavour

Another flavour tipped for success this year is the world’s largest edible fruit: the Pawpaw. The fruit has a creamy flesh and sweet tropical flavour that is best described as a cross between a mango and a banana, said the researchers.

“The flavours predicted this year provide manufacturers with the opportunity to offer consumers new taste experiences with adventurous flavours that have authentic, regional appeal.”

Classic flavours

In addition to less well-known flavours, the top 10 contains classic flavours such as: peanut butter and jelly, French toast and speculoos − a classic cookie originating from the Netherlands and Belgium.

“We realise that new is not always better and have balanced the list with nostalgic flavours that consumers still desire,” said Olah. “This year’s list offers a full range of flavour possibilities, from traditional comfort flavours to new and exciting flavours of the future.”

The list of flavours was drawn from wide-ranging consumer preference trends, including comfort, connections, sensory and health and wellness, said Olah.

Sensient Flavours’ trend predictions for 2013

Alderwood Smoke − Provides sweet and smoky flavour during smoking

Blue Honeysuckle Berry − A cross between a blueberry and a blackberry, which originates in Russia

One of the world’s hottest peppers, together with alderwood smoke, the pawpaw fruit and a classic cookie from the Netherlands will feature in the top 10 flavour trends for 2013, according to a report published by flavour company Sensient Flavours.